SAN JACINTO VALLEY: Golden anniversary couples honored

In 1994, a club was formed to honor couples married at least 50 years.

Nick and Charlotte Jones got the idea as they celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary.

âWe noted that it was moderately rare to celebrate a silver anniversary, and to celebrate a golden anniversary for 50 years of marriage was very special,â Charlotte Jones said. âWe began the Golden Quail Couples Club that year with a Valentine Party for any couple who had been married 50 years or more.â

The tradition has continued. This year Jones mailed out 280 invitations.

The California Quail is the logo for Miller-Jones Mortuary and Crematory, which the Joneses have operated for many years. Club members are presented with a Golden Quail lapel pin.

âThe celebration of a life lived is a primary part to the mortuary business, and these couples are great examples of how to live and celebrate life,â Jones said. âWe believe getting to know them and their friends better is also good for business.â

Even if a member becomes widowed, he or she still is invited every year, Jones said.

âThey are such a wonderful group to entertain,â Jones said. âThey enjoy themselves and appreciate the effort we put into the gatherings.â

Donald and Eleanor Shackelford, of Homeland, joined the club many years ago. The couple celebrated their 72nd wedding anniversary in August 2012.

âI donât like to miss the luncheon,â said Eleanor Shackelford, 90. âI always enjoy the music and the humor.â

She said her secret to such a long marriage has been âhanging in there whether itâs good or itâs bad.â The couple had three children, 10 grandchildren, about 20 great-grandchildren and will be great-great grandparents for the second time in March.

Gilbert and Joyce Moe were married in March 1954.

âWe like to get together with friends we know in the club,â Gilbert Moe said. âItâs a nice thing that Miller-Jones is doing for its clients. Charlotte spends a lot of time putting this together with her helpers just for us.â

Longtime club members John and Ruth Putnoky never miss a Valentine event, Charlotte Jones said.

âEverything is always so wonderful, especially the people,â Ruth Putnoky said. âWe have a wonderful meal, and all the men dress up so nice.â

Join the conversation

Keep it civil and stay on topic. No profanity, vulgarity, racial slurs or personal attacks. People who harass others or joke about tragedies will be blocked. By posting your comment, you agree to allow Freedom Communications, Inc. the right to republish your name and comment in additional Freedom publications without any notification or payment.